It looks big when you're small; it looks smaller back a bit. That's about the size of it. That's about the size, where you put your eyes. That's about the size of it.

The Quiet Magpie: My list of must-see films

I learned that a lot of young people have never heard of many of my must-see films that succeeded on plain old good writing, direction, lighting, music and cinematography, and without the benefit of today’s effects technology. Here’s my initial list. Got any to add?

Gone with the Wind (even with today’s technology, can’t think how this can be improved)

One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest (one of Jack Nicholson’s best)

Babette’s Feast (love this!)

Heavenly Creatures (not a pleasant film to watch but very good nonetheless; based on a true story, starring a very young Kate Winslett)

The Color Purple (a little too long for me, but worth it; Whoopee Goldberg’s first major film, but NOT a comedy; try to spot Oprah Winfrey)

Remains of the Day (quiet is perhaps the best word to describe it — i’ve seen noisier silent films!)

Camille Claudel (wonderful Isabelle Adjani!)

Steel Magnolias (superb ensemble cast)

Fiddler on the Roof (lovely lovely)

The Godfather (I like the second one best, but you can’t see it without having seen the first first.)